Federal Government to Rename Fire Service for Reforms

The Federal Government has announced its intention to rename the Federal Fire Service to the Federal Fire and Rescue Service. This decision is part of a broader reform aimed at replacing the outdated 1963 law governing the fire service.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this announcement on Monday during the 2026 National Fire Safety Week in Abuja. He stated that the proposed legislation has completed its defense before the Federal Executive Council and is set to be presented for consideration this week.

The new law will expand the agency's responsibilities beyond firefighting to include emergency medical services, search and rescue operations, hazardous materials response, disaster management, and accident investigation. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for a modernized fire service that can provide comprehensive rescue services and address hazardous materials incidents, reflecting the evolving needs of Nigerian society.